After 15 games, Cousins is one of four rookies averaging double figures in scoring (10.3) and is third among rookies in rebounds (6.7). But Cousins also is shooting a team-worst 38.4 percent from the field, has fouled out of three games and is averaging 4.2 fouls, most in the NBA.

Cousins was fined earlier this season after a verbal dispute with Daniel Shapiro, the Kings’ strength and conditioning coach over a matter of personal fitness.

The decision kicking Cousins out of Monday’s practice was defended by Kings coach Paul Westphal.

“It was a necessary move in our continued attempt to help him develop,” Westphal told the Sacramento Bee. “I’m not going to get into details. He was asked to leave early.”

The Spurs will not see Cousins and the Kings until much later this season. San Antonio travels to Sacramento during the Rodeo roadtrip Feb. 4. The Kings will visit San Antonio March 11.